Speaking at Being Poor Is Expensive Conference – Roundhouse, London
I’m honoured to be speaking at the “Being Poor Is Expensive” Conference, a one-day interdisciplinary gathering at the Roundhouse Studio Theatre on Sunday 5 October 2025.
Inspired by the work of multi-award-winning UK artist Bashy, this event brings together artists, academics, educators, and community leaders to explore the cultural, social, and spiritual themes in his acclaimed album Being Poor Is Expensive.
My Contribution
Poverty, Theodicy, and Social Injustice in Bashy’s “Being Poor Is Expensive”
In my paper, I draw on the theological concept of Imago Dei — the belief that every person is created in the image of God — to explore how Bashy’s unflinching portrayal of poverty and inequality challenges traditional understandings of divine justice.
I will be asking:
How systemic inequality undermines human dignity
How theology can speak to social injustice today
How music and culture spark vital conversations for change
Why This Conference Matters
Bashy’s Being Poor Is Expensive is a sharp, narrative-driven record that shines a light on economic hardship, racialised experience, and the systemic barriers facing communities in Britain. Its themes make it a rich text for interdisciplinary discussion — blending culture, theology, education, and community work.
About the Roundhouse
The Roundhouse is one of London’s most prestigious cultural venues, known for presenting bold, contemporary performance and championing new voices. The conference is part of their Studio Theatre Season 2025 — a curated programme of innovative works and civic conversations.
Conference Highlights – Sunday 5 October 2025
10:00 – 10:20 Registration & Welcome
10:20 – 11:00 Keynote Address: Monique Charles & James F. Broad
11:15 – 12:35 Papers (Education + Theology) including my session on Poverty, Theodicy, and Social Injustice
12:35 – 13:20 Spoken word & performance responses
14:10 – 15:00 Papers on Place and Feminist/Womanist responses
15:00 – 16:40 Performances including Trybe House Theatre
16:50 – 17:40 Lesson plans & tools for educators
17:40 – 18:00 Closing remarks
Join the Conversation
Listen to one of the tracks that inspired the conference:
https://youtu.be/qtvr1tBVUZE?si=z3EQdaa-RytizlfH
Event details and waiting list:
https://www.roundhouse.org.uk/whats-on/as-bashys-being-poor/
I’m looking forward to joining this important conversation — and to exploring how art, faith, and community engagement can help build a more just society.
